Coral reefs

(The Buccoo Reef)By: Jada Alexander – Wilson

1L

What are Coral reefs?Coral are tiny underwater organisms (mainly polyps). They secrete an exoskeleton made from calcium carbonate which forms coral

reefs. They provide homes for 25% of all underwater creatures even though they take up only 1% of the entire ocean surface!!!

Where is the Buccoo Reef located and how is it used?

Located off Pigeon Point, Tobago. The Buccoo Reef

is a huge tourist attraction. Used for scuba

divers and snorkeling enthusiasts.

How is it being destroyed?

A combination of pollution from land run-off and damage from reef walking and anchors has depleted a lot of this reef.

The beauty will become a shadow of what it was and no one will want to enjoy it again.

Luckily, steps can be taken to save Tobago’s Reef.

We just need to follow these rules whenever visiting the reef.

1. Do not walk on reefs. This kills coral polyps and stops reproduction.

2. Do not take any coral while

snorkeling or scuba diving.

3. If scuba diving watch out for your fins.

4. Do not leave litter anywhere - NO MATTER WHAT!

5. If big-game fishing on a charter boat ask about tag and return.

Tour guides should make sure that these rules are being followed. People should visit the reefs with a frame of mind that they are

fragile and should be treated with care. Tourists should also report any wrong doing before it gets out of hand.

The End